Itinerary Notes

Due to the recent earthquake in New Zealand, there has been significant damage to the area around Kaikoura. As a result, we have rerouted Days 22 & 20 of this itinerary for all departures through Oct 31, 2017. Please see the full itinerary for details of the change.

When arranging your transportation, such as flights, please take into consideration the below time restrictions for joining and departing from your group. With these times, we have taken into account travel time to/from the airport in the given destination and required time for check-in or baggage collection/immigration.

Your flight must arrive by or before: 11:59 p.m. on Day 1

Your flight must depart no earlier than: 12:00 a.m. on Day 24

Itinerary

Day 1Auckland

Arrive at any time.

Arrive in Auckland at any time. There are no planned activities during the day, so check into the hotel and explore the city. Visit the Maritime Museum, walk the waterfront, or even take the ferry to Waiheke Island.

Jump right into your adventure by adding the 'Auckland Sailing: America's Cup Experience' extra to your tour. Work with a crew to sail around Auckland's Waitemata Harbour on a competitive yacht, and take in the stunning views. PLEASE NOTE: If booking this extra, a pre-night in Auckland is highly recommended as this activity may start early in the morning on Day 1.

This tour departs Auckland early on Day 2. If you are interested in exploring the city and its nearby attractions, like the Hobbiton Movie Set or local wineries, it is recommended you book additional pre-trip accommodation nights.

Arrival Day and Welcome Meeting

1h19:00

The adventure begins tonight. Feel free to explore before your welcome meeting, but make sure you’re back in time to meet the group. After introductions, your CEO will review the details of your tour. Please note that normal check-in times apply at our start hotels, but you can usually store your luggage for the day if you arrive early.

Optional Activities - Day 1

Maritime Museum Visit

Auckland1h-8h

20NZD per person

Tour the museum’s seven galleries to learn more about New Zealand’s relationship with the sea. Be inspired by the country's most celebrated mariner, Sir Peter Blake, and his many accomplishments, and see maritime art that speaks to the sentiment of a nautical nation.

Waiheke Island Excursion

Waiheke Island3h-8h

45-130NZD per person

Take a ferry ride to Waiheke Island for a quick, fun getaway. Swim or kayak at white-sand beaches in the Hauraki Gulf. Tour the island's tracks and bush reserves, or sample your way through some of the island’s 19 boutique wineries (the island produces some of New Zealand’s finest reds).

Accommodation

Nomads Auckland (or similar)

Hotel

Day 2Auckland/Bay of Islands

Travel north via backroads, stopping to see giant kauri trees, and go for an included snorkel at Goat Island Marine Reserve (seasonal). Board a large houseboat for an overnight trip through the beautiful Bay of Islands.

Depart early and travel to a local reserve with giant kauri trees. Native to New Zealand, these trees are some of the largest in the world. Learn about their importance to European settlement in New Zealand. Head to the Goat Island Marine Reserve for an included activity of snorkelling to see abundant sea life (seasonal).

Continue on to the Bay of Islands and board a houseboat – your home for the night.

Please note: during the winter months (late April - early November) Goat Island snorkelling will be cancelled due to an earlier departure time for the houseboat. As a result, there will be more time for activities on board the houseboat.

Private Vehicle

Auckland – Paihia4h250km

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Goat Island Marine Reserve Snorkelling

Goat Island30m

Grab a snorkel and mask and play Jacques Cousteau. See an array of marine life up close at this amazing snorkelling site and reserve that’s been protected for more than 30 years. Keep an eye out for blue maomaos, eagle and sting rays, octopi, kahawais, dolphins, and orcas!

Bay of Islands Overnight Excursion

Bay of Islands20h-24h

Board a houseboat for some marine fun and a memorable overnight excursion. Go kayaking, swimming, target shooting, shellfish gathering or dolphin spotting – the list is endless. Spend some quality R&R time on a nearby remote island after an active day. Leave your worries behind - all activities and meals on board are included, and the night is spent anchored at a secluded bay.

Accommodation

Rock Boat Cruise (or similar)

Houseboat

Meals included:

Breakfast | Dinner

Day 3Bay of Islands/Paihia

Enjoy free time in the morning on the boat. Choose to do a number of included water activities like kayaking, snorkelling, fishing or visiting nearby islands. Opt to go on a dolphin watching tour. Disembark and explore Paihia before a Kiwi barbecue.

Enjoy a morning of activities from our boat base. Then travel back to the mainland for a walk around the small town of Paihia. An optional visit to the Treaty House in the nearby town of Waitangi is highly recommended.

Free Time

PaihiaAfternoon

Spend free time in this seaside town any way you want - swim, trek or just relax on one of the golden-sand beaches.

Optional Activities - Day 3

Waitangi Treaty Grounds Visit

25-45NZD per person

Learn about the history of New Zealand on this visit to the Waitangi Treaty Grounds. See the historic Treaty House where local Maori signed their accord with the British Crown in 1840, giving the Maori the rights of British subjects (a guided tour is highly recommended). Get a taste of Maori culture with performances of traditional songs and dances and, of course, the infamous Haka!

Ferry to Russell

Paihia1h-3h

7-12NZD per person

Head over to New Zealand’s first capital. Explore the town's many highlights, including the old Pompallier Mission, an early French Catholic missionary.

Accommodation

The Bay Adventurer (or similar)

Hostel

Meals included:

Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

Day 4Paihia/Auckland

Enjoy a free morning to relax, or opt to swim with dolphins, go skydiving, or check out the historic Waitangi Treaty Grounds.

Take advantage of optional morning activities such as skydiving, dolphin watching, fishing or visiting the historic town of Russell. Travel back to Auckland.

Free Time

PaihiaMorning

Fill free time as you please with a range of options ranging from adrenaline-based activities to spending more time on or in the water.

Private Vehicle

Paihia – Auckland4h250km

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Optional Activities - Day 4

Skydiving

Paihia

329-365NZD per person

Go for this once-in-a-lifetime skydiving opportunity in New Zealand – the Bay of Islands is one of the best places to try it! Skydive over the bay from a range of heights (between 2743-4877m or 9,000-16,000ft).

Dolphin Watching Tour

Paihia

95-110NZD per person

Spend a morning out in the bay looking for wild dolphins. If circumstances are right (about 50/50), there may be an opportunity to swim with these amazing creatures. Bring your swimwear, towel, warm clothes, and snacks. Don't worry about a wetsuit, mask, snorkel or flippers – they're provided.

Waitangi Treaty Grounds Visit

25-45NZD per person

Learn about the history of New Zealand on this visit to the Waitangi Treaty Grounds. See the historic Treaty House where local Maori signed their accord with the British Crown in 1840, giving the Maori the rights of British subjects (a guided tour is highly recommended). Get a taste of Maori culture with performances of traditional songs and dances and, of course, the infamous Haka!

Ferry to Russell

Paihia1h-3h

7-12NZD per person

Head over to New Zealand’s first capital. Explore the town's many highlights, including the old Pompallier Mission, an early French Catholic missionary.

Optional Welcome Meeting for Travellers on Combos

You may be a seasoned pro at group travel by now, but there will likely be some new travellers joining the group. Sit in on the welcome meeting to meet the newest members of your group and learn about the next leg of your tour.

Accommodation

Nomads Auckland (or similar)

Hotel

Meals included:

Breakfast

Day 5Auckland/Raglan

Visit a conservation farm to learn about their methods before sea kayaking to a harbour for a picnic lunch.

Travel backroads to a remote conservation farm where they are using natural means to boost the stocks of traditionally farmed marine life. Farmers have created a balanced ecosystem to attract native birds and animals back to the area.

After, kayak to a remote part of the harbour for a boat cruise and lunch, before heading to our lodge a few minutes drive from the famous surf and arts town of Raglan for the night.

Private Vehicle

Auckland – Raglan3h160km

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Sea Kayaking

Raglan1h30m-2h

Tour Raglan’s secluded bays and unique coastline by kayak. Paddle the inner harbour to get up close to wildlife, fish, and (fingers crossed) orcas. Discover the pancake rocks on the harbour's northern side.

Accommodation

Lava Lounge (or similar)

Hostel

Meals included:

Breakfast | Lunch

Day 6Raglan

Enjoy an included surf lesson in one of the world's most famous surf areas, then opt to go mountain biking or rent a stand up paddle board.

Head down to the beach for an included surf lesson. The afternoon is open for optional activities such as yoga, mountain biking or exploring the many trails in the area.

Hands-On: Surf Lessons

Learn how to catch a wave in this three-hour surf lesson. Start with instruction on dry land before heading into the surf. Take advantage of the large soft boards used in class (they help everyone stand up).

Free Time

RaglanAfternoon

Enjoy free time any way you want in this surfing town. Head to the beach to hang ten or relax with a cold drink and plan your next activities.

Optional Activities - Day 6

Hiking

Raglan

Free

Lace up your hiking boots and head out on local tracks for scenic views. Try walks around Mt Karioi, Te Toto Gorge, or Wainui Reserve.

Stand Up Paddle Lesson

Raglan

79NZD per person

Enjoy fantastic scenery and a great workout while stand up paddle boarding in the Raglan harbour.

Karioi Loop Walk

Whale Bay1h30m-2h

Free

Enjoy a pleasant forest walk on the flanks of extinct volcano Mt Karioi. Start and finish at our location in Whale Bay. Be ready to get a little muddy if it’s been raining – it’s all part of the adventure.

Accommodation

Lava Lounge (or similar)

Hostel

Meals included:

Breakfast | Dinner

Day 7Raglan/Rotorua

Opt to go caving in world famous Waitomo before heading to Rotorua, notable for its geothermal activity and culture. Visit a local village to gain insight into Maori culture.

Depending on the weather conditions and the desires of the group, opt to visit the Waitomo caves, famous for their glow-worms. For the adventurous, there is the option of ‘black water rafting’.

Continue to Rotorua for an engaging cultural experience on the grounds of a historic Maori village.

Private Vehicle

Raglan – Rotorua4h260km

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Maori Cultural Experience

Rotorua1h-1h30m

Immerse yourself in a Maori cultural experience on the grounds of a historic Maori village. Participate in a pōwhiri (welcoming ceremony), and learn about the history of the marae (village) and the Rotorua-area from a local Maori guide. Discover the abundant geothermal energy surrounding the village that’s used for cooking, heating, and communal bath houses.

Optional Activities - Day 7

Waitomo Cave Excursion

Waitomo Caves

68NZD per person

Enjoy a peaceful boat ride through caverns covered with magical glowworms that are unique to New Zealand. Hundreds of thousands of these tiny creatures radiate luminescent light in underground caves calved by rivers and time. Take in more than 120 years of cultural and natural history on this unique excursion.

Waitomo TumuTumu Toobing (Black Water Rafting)

Waitomo3h-5h

152NZD per person

Float down a river on this subterranean inner tube adventure.

Waitomo Lost World Cave Abseil

Waitomo Caves

288NZD per person

Feel like the hero of your own action movie on this tour that involves a 100m (328 ft) abseil (rappel) into the Lost World with a guide at your side. Be awed by the beauty of an iconic cavern that’s covered in glittering glow-worms. After a 30-min descent, embark on a journey back to the surface through a spectacular dry cavern. Relish in your accomplishments (and added confidence) afterwards with some good food and drink.

Waitomo Haggas Honking Holes

Waitomo

220NZD per person

Get your fix of adrenaline and fun on this underground action adventure. Do a series of abseils, rock climbs, crawls, and cruises as you explore the fabulous Waitomo caves in an action-packed 4 hrs. See stalactites, stalagmites, and glow-worms up close.

Waitomo Valley Walk

Waitomo

Free

Explore Waitomo Valley’s amazing rugged landscape by foot on this one-way walk - the CEO will see you off at the start. Check out a small cave on your way, and then follow the trail through the forest back to Waitomo Village. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes, and take a rain jacket and water.

Accommodation

Four Canoes (or similar)

Hostel

Meals included:

Breakfast

Day 8Rotorua/Tongariro National Park

Travel around Lake Taupo and explore the volcanic UNESCO World Heritage-listed national parks in the area. Conquer the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, New Zealand's top-rated 1-day trek (seasonal).

Start early to walk the Tongariro Crossing, New Zealand's top-rated 1-day trek. Collect all your supplies before the hike – the transfer will drop the group off at the beginning of the self-guided trek and pick up everyone at the end.

After the trek, travel to a ski lodge on the side of a mountain for the night. An on-site spa and sauna is available to help ease tired muscles.

Please note that the Tongariro Alpine Crossing is self-guided and will be without a CEO. The trail is clearly marked. Please note that during winter months (June-October), this is an optional hike. There is an extra cost of approximately $135NZD for winter equipment and guide if you opt to do this activity.

Private Vehicle

Rotorua – Tongariro National Park3h180km

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Tongariro Alpine Crossing Trek

Tongariro Crossing5h-6h30m19-20km

Enjoy spectacular views and otherworldly landscapes on this challenging and rewarding 19.4km (12 mi) trek across a volcanic range. This trek has been called one of the best day hikes in the world. Get prepared before you head out – go through a safety checklist and be sure to buy supplies, food, and water ahead of time. Dress accordingly – elements change constantly.

Note: if the weather is too bad to trek, there will be alternative options such as smaller walks in the area or a visit to remote hot springs. If you do not wish to do the Tongariro Crossing, other activities can be arranged.

Optional Activities - Day 8

Scenic flight

Tongariro National Park15m-30m

120-245NZD per person

Bypass the Tongariro Crossing if you’re not up for it. Take to the skies and experience a scenic flight over the mountains – if it’s a clear day. Magic!

Taranaki Falls

Tongariro National Park6km

Free

Opt to do the Taranaki Falls walk if the Tongariro Crossing is cancelled, or if you are not feeling up to the challenge. Take in great views of this 20m (66ft) waterfall and surrounding water-worn gorges on this low alpine loop trail. Start and finish at our accommodation.

Tongariro Winter Crossing

Tongariro National Park

35-135NZD per person

Accommodation

Skotel Alpine Resort (or similar)

Hotel

Meals included:

Breakfast | Dinner

Day 9Tongariro National Park/Wellington

Hit the nation's capital and visit the national museum, Te Papa, or stroll along Oriental Parade. Check out some of the area's great bars and cafés.

Travel to Wellington, New Zealand's capital city. Arrive early enough for a visit to the National Museum, Te Papa.

Take a short walk from our accommodation to see the sights of the central business district. Finish the day off with an optional night on the town.

Private Vehicle

Tongariro National Park – Wellington5h400km

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Te Papa Museum Visit

Wellington30m-6h

Visit this must-see museum, home to displays of historical Maori artifacts and modern exhibits. See how the museum is constructed on shock absorbers to withstand New Zealand’s many earthquakes – find the stairwell just outside the entrance and descend into the foundations of the building.

Big Night Out:

Whether it’s a pub crawl, drink specials or a bonfire on the beach, celebrate late into the night with your new best friends.

Accommodation

Nomads Capital (or similar)

Hotel

Meals included:

Breakfast

Day 10Wellington/Abel Tasman National Park

Take a ferry over to the South Island and transfer to Abel Tasman National Park.

Catch a morning ferry and cross the scenic Cook Strait. Make sure to stand outside and enjoy the views of the Marlborough Sounds at the top of the South Island. Disembark and transfer to Abel Tasman National Park, well-known for its stunning white sand beaches. Board a water taxi to transfer to the middle of the National Park for the night. The night will be spent on a floating boat hostel.

During the winter season (May - Oct), and when there is inclement weather in the summer, we will stay in cabins in a true rural setting on the edge of the park instead of the floating boat hostel.

Ferry

Wellington – Picton3h30m92km

Get to the next spot on your route aboard a convenient and efficient ferry boat.

Private Vehicle

Picton – Abel Tasman National Park3h200km

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Water taxi

Abel Tasman National Park30m

Jump in and cross the water to the next stop.

Accommodation

Old MacDonalds Farm (or similar)

Hostel

Meals included:

Breakfast | Dinner

Day 11Abel Tasman National Park

Hike and explore Abel Tasman's golden beaches and waterways.

Abel Tasman National Park Walk

Abel Tasman National Park4h12km

Walk along a coastline track from Anchorage to Marahau to one of the world's most scenic golden sand beaches.

Abel Tasman National Park Kayaking

Explore the coastline and beaches in stunning Abel Tasman National Park. Kayak from Watering Cove along the coastline to Marahau.

Canyoning

Abel Tasman National Park

235NZD per person

Jump, slide, rappel, swim and float down the Torrent River on this canyoning adventure. Make your way down stream and see the stunning rainforest scenery on this active adventure that will bring you into the heart of Abel Tasman National Park.

Skydiving

Abel Tasman National Park

249-399NZD per person

Accommodation

Old MacDonalds Farm (or similar)

Hostel

Meals included:

Breakfast

Day 12Abel Tasman National Park/Franz Josef

Head south down the coast of black-sand beaches. Visit a seal colony and take in the pancake rock formations at Punakaiki before continuing on to Franz Josef.

Private Vehicle

Abel Tasman National Park – Franz Josef8h-8h30m475km

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Pancake Rocks Trek

Punakaiki15m-30m1km

Walk along a loop trail with informative signs detailing how the 'Pancake Rocks' were formed millions of years ago. When the trail reaches the coast, there are many lookouts for photo stops and beautiful views of the coast, the rocks and the blowholes found along the area.

Seal Colony Visit

Cape Foulwind30m1-2km

Stop by a viewing platform over a New Zealand fur seal colony at Cape Foulwind. Female seals will live in the same colony for the duration of their lives, whereas male seals move around more. The males visit the Cape Foulwind colony between late November and mid-January for mating season. All seasons offer plenty of activity to check out, from mating to the raising of baby pups and feeding out at sea.

Accommodation

Rainforest Retreat (or similar)

Resort

Meals included:

Breakfast | Dinner

Day 13Franz Josef

Free day for optional activities. Options include various hikes, horseback riding and quad biking.

Opt to kayak the river into the Paparoa National Park or stick to the local trails for some day hikes. Continue following the coastal road towards Franz Josef arriving at a unique wilderness lodge set in the rainforest for the night.

Carte Blanche

Franz JosefFull Day

There's plenty to see and do in Franz Josef, and we wanted to make sure that you had some time to take it all in. Feel free to relax or try optional activities like a glacial hike, quad biking, and a helicopter hike. Your CEO has more ideas if you need them. Just ask!

Optional Activities - Day 13

Franz Josef Quad Bike

Franz Josef

65-160NZD per person

Hop aboard the two-seater ATV quad and drive along ancient glacial pathways carved into the landscape by ice and water. Be amazed at what lies around every twist and turn as you are guided through rainforests, riverbeds, grasslands, sand and mud. Feel the thrill of fresh air in your face and the excitement of riding in the wild.

Helicopter Hike

Franz Josef3h-4h

449-499NZD per person

Take a once-in-a-lifetime helicopter ride high up on Franz Josef Glacier. Hop out and trek on the white and blue ice. Cool!

Franz Josef Glacier Valley Walk

Franz Josef

65-75NZD per person

Enjoy spectacular views on a guided interpretive walk that follows a riverbed along the Franz Josef Glacier's retreat. At the end, you'll be rewarded with a great view of the glacier off in the distance.

Ice Explorer Guided Hike (Heli Transfer)

Franz Josef

379-409NZD per person

The sheer size and power of Franz Josef is something you need to see to believe. Board a chopper for a leisurely flight over the glacier before landing directly on the ice. From there, get up close and personal on a three-hour guided hike past towering peaks and stunning blue ice. The constantly shifting ice flows and crevices ensure your visit will be one-of-a-kind!

Franz Josef Kayaking

Franz Josef3h-4h

99-129NZD per person

Explore the stunning Lake Mapourika by kayak. This lake was created as the Franz Josef glacier retreated 14,000 years ago, and the still water has created a natural mirror allowing you to soak in the incredible panoramic views.

Hiking

Franz Josef30m-8h3-17km

Free

Take your pick of many scenic and memorable treks in Franz Josef – a true hiker’s haven. Get prepared before heading out, and be mindful of signs along the track. See majestic mountains, glaciers, rivers, and amazing views that you’ll definitely want your camera on hand for.

Horseback Riding

Franz Josef

65-150NZD per person

Hop in the saddle and explore Franz Josef’s amazing glacier landscape on horseback. Ride amid rainforests and mountain scenery, and enjoy fresh open air and natural beauty on this unforgettable trip.

Accommodation

Rainforest Retreat (or similar)

Resort

Meals included:

Breakfast | Dinner

Day 14Franz Josef

Free day for optional activities. Options include various hikes, horseback riding and quad biking.

Carte Blanche

Franz JosefFull Day

There's plenty to see and do in Franz Josef, and we wanted to make sure that you had some time to take it all in. Feel free to relax or try optional activities like a glacial hike, quad biking, and a helicopter hike. Your CEO has more ideas if you need them. Just ask!

Optional Activities - Day 14

Franz Josef Glacier Valley Walk

Franz Josef

65-75NZD per person

Enjoy spectacular views on a guided interpretive walk that follows a riverbed along the Franz Josef Glacier's retreat. At the end, you'll be rewarded with a great view of the glacier off in the distance.

Helicopter Hike

Franz Josef3h-4h

449-499NZD per person

Take a once-in-a-lifetime helicopter ride high up on Franz Josef Glacier. Hop out and trek on the white and blue ice. Cool!

Franz Josef Quad Bike

Franz Josef

65-160NZD per person

Hop aboard the two-seater ATV quad and drive along ancient glacial pathways carved into the landscape by ice and water. Be amazed at what lies around every twist and turn as you are guided through rainforests, riverbeds, grasslands, sand and mud. Feel the thrill of fresh air in your face and the excitement of riding in the wild.

Ice Explorer Guided Hike (Heli Transfer)

Franz Josef

379-409NZD per person

The sheer size and power of Franz Josef is something you need to see to believe. Board a chopper for a leisurely flight over the glacier before landing directly on the ice. From there, get up close and personal on a three-hour guided hike past towering peaks and stunning blue ice. The constantly shifting ice flows and crevices ensure your visit will be one-of-a-kind!

Franz Josef Kayaking

Franz Josef3h-4h

99-129NZD per person

Explore the stunning Lake Mapourika by kayak. This lake was created as the Franz Josef glacier retreated 14,000 years ago, and the still water has created a natural mirror allowing you to soak in the incredible panoramic views.

Hiking

Franz Josef30m-8h3-17km

Free

Take your pick of many scenic and memorable treks in Franz Josef – a true hiker’s haven. Get prepared before heading out, and be mindful of signs along the track. See majestic mountains, glaciers, rivers, and amazing views that you’ll definitely want your camera on hand for.

Horseback Riding

Franz Josef

65-150NZD per person

Hop in the saddle and explore Franz Josef’s amazing glacier landscape on horseback. Ride amid rainforests and mountain scenery, and enjoy fresh open air and natural beauty on this unforgettable trip.

Accommodation

Rainforest Retreat (or similar)

Resort

Meals included:

Breakfast

Day 15Franz Josef/Queenstown

Visit the adventure capital of the world—Queenstown.

Private Vehicle

Franz Josef – Queenstown6hMorning365km

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Accommodation

Nomads Queenstown (or similar)

Hostel

Meals included:

Breakfast

Days 16–17Queenstown

Free time in Queenstown. Get the heart pumping with some adrenaline-filled options, such as jet boating, bungee jumping, mountain biking or skydiving.

If you have pre-booked the Queenstown Jet Boating, your CEO will inform you when you will do the activity during your tour, as days are subject to change.

Please note - in the winter months (late April - early Nov) skiing and snowboarding in the Southern Alps is a highlight for any visitor. Most of the optional activities are also available, ask your CEO which ones are in season.

Carte Blanche

QueenstownFull Day

There's plenty to see and do in Queenstown, and we wanted to make sure that you had some time to take it all in. Feel free to relax or try optional activities like mountain biking, bungee jumping, and jet boating. Your CEO has more ideas if you need them. Just ask!

Optional Activities - Days 16–17

Shotover Jet Boating

Queenstown2h-3h

149NZD per person

Jet boating is a typical New Zealand activity— go as fast you can in a boat over water. Hang on tight as you fly across the surface of the water. Shoot through narrow rocky gorges and dare to watch as the driver takes hairpin turns frighteningly close to the cliffs.

Bungee Jumping

Queenstown1h30m-4h

175-510NZD per person

Adrenaline junkies will be happy with a stop at the world's original commercial bungee site (bungy in New Zealand!). Opt to take the plunge or simply observe where it all started from the comfort solid ground. Shoot some amazing photos of those brave enough to dive into the abyss.

Mountain Biking

Queenstown1h-6h

31.50-140.00NZD per person

Hop on a bike and get familiar with some of the great trails in the area. There are routes for all levels of cyclist to enjoy so rent a and start exploring the hills.

Skydiving

Queenstown

299-439NZD per person

Enjoy the awe-inspiring beauty of Queenstown from an eagle's perspective. Suit up, get briefed and board the prop plane to soar high about the rugged alpine landscape. Strap onto your instructor, take a breath and leap into a once-in-a-lifetime free fall. This is what a natural high truly feels like!

Vineyard Tour

Queenstown5h-7h

185-230NZD per person

Visit vineyards in New Zealand's fastest growing wine region. Taste some of Queenstown's finest Pinot Noir, as well as Riesling and Sauvignon Blanc. Sample local cheeses and learn more about the grape varietals that flourish here. Pick up a few bottles to savour back home.

Paragliding

Queenstown15m-30m

210NZD per person

Hang on! Get a birds-eye view of Queenstown on an exciting ride in the sky.

Gondola Ride

Queenstown1h-2h30m

32NZD per person

Take a ride up to the top of the mountain by cable car gondola. Get a spectacular 220º view of Coronet Peak, the Remarkables mountain range, and Lake Wakatipu below.

Lord of the Rings Horse Riding Tour

Queenstown

165-325NZD per person

Escape New Zealand and head to Middle-earth on a horseback riding tour of sites used in the Lord of the Rings films. Take in the breathtaking views and see if you can spot places where the films were shot.

Ziptrek

Queenstown

120-170NZD per person

Canyon Swing

Queenstown

205NZD per person

Get your heart racing as you launch yourself from the world's highest canyon swing. Free fall for 60m before a 200m swing across Shotover Canyon. See you at the other side!

Canyon Fox

Queenstown

165NZD per person

Accommodation

Nomads Queenstown (or similar)

Hostel

Meals included:

Breakfast

Day 18Queenstown/Doubtful Sound

Visit Fiordland National Park en route to Doubtful Sound.

Depending on weather the walk and kayak may be reversed to fall on different days.

Private Vehicle

Queenstown – Doubtful Sound4h250km

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Fiordland National Park Visit

Fiordland National Park2hAfternoon

Enjoy a guided 2-hour interpretive bush walk in Deep Cove with a visit to Helena Falls.

Doubtful Sound Camp (or similar)

Meals included:

Day 19Doubtful Sound/Wedderburn

Due to cold weather during the winter months (approx May to late September), we will be going on a three hour nature cruise in Doubtful Sound instead of kayaking in the area.

Kayaking Excursion

Fiordland National Park3h-4h

Throw on a life jacket, pick up a paddle and prepare to be wowed during this 3-4 hour kayaking trip through New Zealand's largest national park. Paddle through icy clear waters below towering cliffs and waterfalls and marvel at the moss-covered slopes and verdant rainforest terrain. Spot dolphins, seals and penguins below while birds soar above.

Private Vehicle

Doubtful Sound – Otago Central Rail Trail5h350km

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Accommodation

Mt Ida Shearers Quarters (or similar)

Hostel

Meals included:

Breakfast | Dinner

Day 20Wedderburn

Bike 35 km of the Otago Rail Trail, passing through one historic town to the next. Along the way sample some local food and drink.

Biking Otago Rail Trail

Otago Central Rail Trail5h35-40km

Drive to one of the best starting points of the Historic Otago Rail Trail. Spend the better part of the day cycling along an easy gradient through stunning scenery along 35km of the old rail trail. Cycle through scenery unspoiled by traffic and not visible from any roads.

Optional Activities - Day 20

Curling

Otago1h-1h30m

30NZD per person

Try your hand at throwing a curling rock and sweeping the ice at the only year-round curling facility in Australasia. The sport of curling was introduced to New Zealand in the late 19th century by Scottish settlers.

Accommodation

Mt Ida Shearers Quarters (or similar)

Hostel

Meals included:

Breakfast

Day 21Wedderburn/Christchurch

Enjoy a free afternoon to explore Christchurch.

Overnight in the very unique converted jail house.

Private Vehicle

Wedderburn – Christchurch5h400km

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Free Time

ChristchurchAfternoon

Spend the afternoon exploring Christchurch during free time.

Accommodation

Jailhouse Accommodation (or similar)

Hotel

Meals included:

Breakfast

Day 22Christchurch/Kaikoura

Opt to go whale watching, swim with seals or take a walk along the coast.

Spend the afternoon swimming with dolphins or taking a scenic flight over the peninsula.

Bird watchers will be pleased to know that big ocean birds such as albatrosses, petrels and shearwaters frequent the area.

As a result of the recent earthquake in New Zealand, groups departing before Oct 31, 2017 will be rerouted to Picton or Nelson instead of Kaikoura today.

Private Vehicle

Christchurch – Kaikoura3h180km

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Free Time

KaikouraAfternoon

Head out and explore this beautiful area. View some of the wildlife in the area or hit the trails to get a workout with a view.

Optional Activities - Day 22

Swimming With Dolphins

Kaikoura3h-4h5km

170NZD per person

Hop aboard a boat and head out to the open seas to search for wild dusky dolphins. Depending on conditions, most groups have 20-40 minutes of swim time with the dolphins.

Scenic Flight

Kaikoura

135-180NZD per person

Take a 30-minute flight and set off to search for whales, dolphins, and other marine life. On land, you'll see Maori sites, Kaikoura town and New Zealand's southern fur seals.

Whale Watching

Kaikoura3h-3h30m

145NZD per person

Follow in the path of Paikea, the Maori "whale rider", and set out in search of Giant Sperm Whales as they spray and dive their way through the waters off Kaikora.

Hiking

Kaikoura2h-10h1-9km

Free

Set off along one of many hiking trails to take in the beautiful scenery surrounding Kaikoura.

Sea Kayaking

Kaikoura

95NZD per person

Accommodation

YHA Nelson (or similar)

Hostel

Meals included:

Breakfast

Day 23Kaikoura/Wellington

Travel to Picton to catch the ferry back to Wellington. Opt for a final night out with the group.

Private Vehicle

Kaikoura – Picton2h150km

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Ferry

Picton – Wellington3h92km

Get to the next spot on your route aboard a convenient and efficient ferry boat.

Optional Activities - Day 23

New Zealand Fur Seals Visit

Kaikoura

See the lovable southern fur seals in their natural habitat. These confident and curious creatures can be pretty engaging, but be sure to keep a distance so they don't feel threatened. Be sure to snap some pics of your new furry friends!

Accommodation

Nomads Capital (or similar)

Hotel

Meals included:

Breakfast

Day 24Wellington

Depart at any time.

We highly recommend pre- or post-accommodation to fully explore this vibrant city.

Departure Day

Not ready to leave? Your CEO can help with travel arrangements to extend your adventure.

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